First Impressions of DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag (Large), Mossy Oak Bottomland, Waterproof N
The DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag (Large), Mossy Oak Bottomland, Waterproof N promises organization and waterproof protection for the serious waterfowl hunter. From Drake Waterfowl, a name synonymous with quality hunting gear, this bag boasts a generous 18 pockets, a waterproof interior, and a durable, abrasion-resistant bottom. It aims to solve the age-old problem of soggy gear and chaotic blind organization, issues that can quickly derail a hunt.
I’ve always struggled with keeping my gear dry and organized in the duck blind. Too often, I’ve found myself fumbling for shells in a disorganized mess, or worse, discovering that my calls are waterlogged and useless. This led me to search for a solution that offered both ample storage and reliable waterproofing, pushing me to try the DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag.
The first thing I noticed upon receiving the bag was the familiar Mossy Oak Bottomland camouflage. The material felt sturdy, and the overall construction seemed well-executed. It wasn’t overly heavy, which is important when you’re already lugging a shotgun, decoys, and other essential gear.
Compared to my old generic field bag and a smaller, less structured Avery blind bag, the DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag immediately stood out. My old bag lacked organization, while the Avery bag was simply too small for a full day of hunting. This Drake bag seemed to offer the perfect balance of capacity, organization, and weather protection.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited about the potential for finally having a well-organized and dry hunting setup, but I also knew that only real-world testing would reveal whether the DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag could truly live up to its promises.
Real-World Testing: Putting DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag (Large), Mossy Oak Bottomland, Waterproof N to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag came during an early-season teal hunt in the flooded timber. The conditions were typical for that time of year: humid, with intermittent rain showers. I packed the bag with everything I needed for the hunt, including several boxes of shells, multiple duck calls, a rangefinder, gloves, snacks, and a small first-aid kit.
The bag performed admirably in the wet conditions. The rain beaded up and rolled off the exterior, and the waterproof interior kept all of my gear dry. The organization was also a game-changer. I knew exactly where everything was, and I could quickly access what I needed without fumbling around.
The only minor issue I encountered was the size of the thermos/jacket sleeve on top. While it was improved over previous designs, it was still a tight fit for my larger thermos and a bulky rain jacket. However, this was a small inconvenience compared to the overall performance of the bag.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. I’ve used it in various hunting scenarios, from flooded timber to open water layouts, and it has consistently performed well.
The bag has shown no significant signs of wear and tear. The nylon exterior has held up well to abrasion, and the seams remain strong and intact. The waterproof interior is still completely waterproof, even after repeated use.
Cleaning and maintaining the bag is relatively easy. Mud and dirt can be easily wiped off the exterior, and the interior can be rinsed out with water if necessary. I’ve found that occasional spot cleaning with a mild detergent helps to keep the bag looking its best.
Compared to my previous experiences with less durable and less organized bags, the DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag is a significant upgrade. It has made my hunts more enjoyable and efficient by keeping my gear dry and organized. It definitely outperforms my previous bags in terms of both durability and functionality.
Breaking Down the Features of DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag (Large), Mossy Oak Bottomland, Waterproof N
Specifications
- Material: The bag is constructed primarily of durable nylon. This provides a good balance of water resistance and abrasion resistance.
- Color/Camouflage: The Mossy Oak Bottomland pattern is highly effective for concealment in a variety of waterfowl hunting environments. It blends seamlessly into flooded timber, marsh grass, and other natural settings.
- Dimensions: With a height of 11 inches, the large size provides ample storage without being overly bulky. The exact length and width aren’t provided, but the “large” designation suggests a generous capacity.
- Water Resistance: The bag is advertised as waterproof, due to the seam-welded vinyl internal liner and the heavy-duty nylon/TPU bottom. This gives peace of mind in wet conditions.
- Pockets: Features 18 pockets and storage compartments. This allows for highly customizable gear organization.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the bag’s performance and usability in the field. The durable materials and waterproof construction ensure that your gear stays protected from the elements. The ample storage and organizational features allow you to keep everything you need within easy reach, maximizing efficiency during the hunt.
Performance & Functionality
The DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag performs its job exceptionally well. The waterproof interior keeps gear dry in the face of rain, snow, and accidental splashes.
The bag’s strengths lie in its organization, durability, and waterproof construction. The improved thermos/jacket sleeve could be a bit larger, but this is a minor drawback. It exceeds expectations for a blind bag in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The bag’s Mossy Oak Bottomland camouflage is aesthetically pleasing and effective for concealment. The bag’s sturdy construction inspires confidence, and the weight is manageable even when fully loaded.
The multiple pockets and compartments make it easy to organize gear according to personal preferences. There is no significant learning curve, making the bag user-friendly for hunters of all experience levels.
Durability & Maintenance
The DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag appears to be built to last. The durable nylon exterior and reinforced bottom should withstand years of use and abuse.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth or mild detergent. The quality construction suggests that repairs should be minimal, if needed at all.
Accessories and Customization Options
The DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, focusing instead on the core functionality of a well-designed blind bag. Drake offers various shell holders and other accessories that can be added to the bag’s exterior using the existing attachment points, allowing for some degree of customization.
The bag is compatible with most standard-sized thermoses and water bottles. The internal compartments can also be customized with dividers or other organizational inserts from third-party manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag (Large), Mossy Oak Bottomland, Waterproof N
Pros
- Exceptional Waterproofing: The seam-welded vinyl liner and TPU-reinforced bottom provide reliable protection against water damage.
- Ample Organization: 18 pockets and compartments offer plenty of space to organize gear efficiently.
- Durable Construction: The sturdy nylon exterior and reinforced bottom are built to withstand years of use.
- Effective Camouflage: The Mossy Oak Bottomland pattern blends seamlessly into a variety of waterfowl hunting environments.
- Comfortable to Carry: Even when fully loaded, the bag is relatively comfortable to carry thanks to its well-designed shoulder strap.
Cons
- Thermos/Jacket Sleeve Could Be Larger: The sleeve on top could be a bit more spacious to accommodate larger thermoses and bulky jackets.
- Limited Customization Options: While some accessories can be added, the bag lacks extensive customization options.
Who Should Buy DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag (Large), Mossy Oak Bottomland, Waterproof N?
This bag is perfect for serious waterfowl hunters who demand reliable waterproof protection and efficient gear organization. It’s also a good choice for anyone who spends time in wet or muddy environments and needs to keep their gear dry and accessible.
Hunters who prefer minimalist setups or require highly specialized features might want to skip this product. Also, if a user is looking for a very small bag, then they should skip this product.
A must-have accessory for this bag is a high-quality thermos that fits comfortably in the top sleeve.
Conclusion on DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag (Large), Mossy Oak Bottomland, Waterproof N
The DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag (Large), Mossy Oak Bottomland, Waterproof N is an excellent choice for waterfowl hunters seeking a durable, waterproof, and well-organized gear bag. It effectively addresses the common challenges of keeping gear dry and accessible in the field.
At $77.99, the price is justified by the bag’s quality construction, waterproof performance, and ample storage capacity. It offers excellent value for the money compared to other blind bags on the market.
I would definitely recommend the DRAKE DA2020006 Blind Bag to any waterfowl hunter who is tired of dealing with soggy gear and disorganized blind setups. Invest in this bag, and you’ll be able to focus on what matters most: bagging those birds.